Sunset Boulevard

 [Moses’] eyes were not dim nor his natural vigor diminished. — Deuteronomy 34:7

Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical Sunset Boulevard  tells the story of Norma Desmond, a former silent film star. When the talking movies came into fashion, she lost her audience. As an older woman, she longed for the glory of her past. In her mind, silent facial expressions alone made a good movie — not dialogue. In the song With One Look Norma sings:

With one look I can break your heart;

With one look I play every part . . .

With one look I’ll ignite a blaze;

I’ll return to my glory days.

Because Norma lived in the past, her life ended in tragedy.

It’s been said that each life is like a book, lived one chapter at a time. If you think your most fruitful years are behind you, remember you’re writing a new chapter now. Learn to live each day with contentment in the present.

Near the end of Moses’ life, God showed him the Promised Land. Clearly, he had accomplished his mission in life. But he didn’t long for the miracles of his “glory days.” Instead, Moses was content to obey God in the present. In his sunset years, he mentored Joshua to be his successor (Deut. 31:1-8).

Living contentedly in the present has a way of making us productive for a lifetime. — for God’s glory. — Dennis Fisher

I give my life to You, O Lord,

And live for You each day;

Grant me contentment as I strive

To follow and obey. — Sper

READ:  Deuteronomy 34

Living in the past paralyzes the present and bankrupts the future.

The Bible in one year:

• 2 Samuel 12-13

• Luke 16